The exhibition tour is designed to be used by members of the public but also by schools, with the aim that pupils will be able to learn more about voting in local elections and other ways in which their voices can be heard, such as campaigning or signing petitions.

In the Civic Vault visitors can see displays of mayoral robes and maces Pic: Begum Whitehead

Items on display include the regalia worn by the mayors of Shoreditch and Stoke Newington, chains of office and maces from the early 20th century and a central vacuum cleaning system, which is built into the walls.

Apparatus used in decades gone by on display in the Building Vault: Pic: Begum Whitehead

Mayor Phillip Glanville said: “It is important that the citizens of Hackney have a sense of civic ownership and can explore their town hall, the heart of civic life in the borough, to find out more about its history and what actually happens in its four walls.”

This offers a great historical experience for the whole family. Hackney Town Hall was designed by Lanchester and Lodge and was completed in 1937 . The building has been recently restored in Art Deco style by designers Hawkins Brown and now hosts many public events including weddings and conferences.